In the shadow of the Christmas holiday stands Epiphany
Scripture reading Matthew 2:1-12. Text: “When they (the Three Wise Men) saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh.” Matthew 2:10-11. Epiphany is celebrated twelve days after Christmas on Jan. 6.
Epiphany means “show forth” or manifestation of Jesus to the Gentiles. This holiday, like the Ascension Thursday, slowly losing its importance. In the Eastern Church Christ’s baptism and in the Western Church the arrival of the Magi are in the center of Epiphany.
THE SCIENTIFIC, HISTORICAL AND THEOLOGICAL ANSWERS TO OUR QUEST.
Many questions can be raised concerning the three Wise Men, however, history, science, as well as biblical theology cannot answer many of them. We are inclined to ask: who were the Magi, from where did they come, how long have they traveled, when did they arrive, what language did they speak, what kind of star did lead them to Bethlehem, when did the star appear in the sky, how did they communicate with Mary and Joseph?
Strictly speaking we do not know more for sure than we find in the Bible, Matthew 2:1-12. According to the legend their names were, Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar, as quoted by William Barclay. The definite answers that might satisfy our curiosity would not offer much more than St. Matthew did. The word magos (plural: magi) originally meant, a learned person. Our word “magician” came from the Greek “magos.” Astronomy (also astrology) was important science in ancient times. It was believed that the celestial bodies controlled human lives. The stars became symbols, like in Numbers 24,17: “I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near. A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel.”
THE SPIRITUAL INTERPRETATION OF THE MAGI’S TRIP AND PAYING HOMAGE TO JESUS.
The birth of the Messiah (in Greek, Christ) was an event that had reached beyond the geographical boundaries of Israel. The simple fact, that Gentiles far from Bethlehem had noticed the star, indicates that Christ’s birth had been a “universal event” that is affecting the world, as it was known at that time. No nation, country, part of the society, church or religious group can claim that the Savior is only “ours.” God had sent this message to Isaiah: “I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.” Isaiah 49:6.
Since the Wise Men had to stop at Jerusalem to ask for further information simply proved that the divine guidance was (and is) not without interruption. The exceptions were the pillars of cloud and fire that had led the Israelites in the desert after leaving Egypt, Exodus 13:21-22. The clear and obvious divine leadership will not take place unceasingly for 365 days in a year. There are times when we need our own input.
During our journey we will meet evil people. Wickedness is often disguised, and tragedy happens. Herod was cruel and ruthless. According William Barclay, Herod had even his own sons Antipater, Alexander and Aristobulus killed. Don’t we know such people today who act like Herod? Are we thankful that we live in a democracy?
The Magi were learned, educated people in their own right. Science and faith are rather friends than foes. The more we will learn about the universe (what exists beyond our solar system) the more amazingly we will look at the boundless realm of the galaxies. A new solar system to be discovered may serve as a guiding star to God.
Everybody can bring his/her own gift to the Messiah. Remember the Christmas carol about the drummer boy? The three Wise Men had brought royal gifts such as gold, frankincense and myrrh, and these were precious commodities in Jesus’ times. If everybody brings whatever he/she is able to offer and gives it with reverence, our Lord’s saying will become true: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts of Apostles 20:35.
I am convinced that one of the most important issues in life is not from where you are coming, but in which direction are you proceeding? What is your orientation, what are the purpose, goal, and final destination of your life? Whom do you wish to meet, whose company do you prefer, whom do you revere, and finally, how far are you willing to travel to know a respected person?
The little child had grown up and sends his message to everyone: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. . . .” Matthew 11:28-30.
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The Rev. Alexander Jalso is a retired United Presbyterian minister living in Brownsville.